Briar Cliff celebrates students at scholarship dinner

Briar Cliff University (BCU) in Sioux City hosted its annual Donor Scholarship Dinner on Oct. 20 at the St. Francis Center on campus. The evening brought together scholarship donors and student recipients to celebrate the generosity that makes a Briar Cliff education accessible and life-changing. 

The event included remarks from Briar Cliff University President Dr. Matthew Draud and a panel discussion led by BCU students. The program highlighted the powerful impact of scholarships on the student experience and the lifelong connections formed through donor support. 
 
This year, Briar Cliff University awarded over $1.3 million in donor-funded scholarships to 191 students. A total of 331 scholarships were distributed, including $416,020 in annual scholarships, $358,990 in Promise scholarships, and $585,074 in endowed scholarships. 
 
“Scholarships are the cornerstone of access to a Briar Cliff education,” said Dr. Draud. “They maintain affordability for students and families, strengthen our enrollment, and help ensure that Briar Cliff continues to serve a diverse student body. The generosity of our donors directly fuels our mission and allows us to continue providing a world-class education rooted in Franciscan values.” 
 
Through both annual and endowed scholarships, Briar Cliff sustains its long-standing commitment to educational opportunities and excellence. These gifts not only enhance the sustainability and viability of the university but also boost the overall campus culture by supporting a broad range of student interests, talents, and backgrounds.